1996 Opel Astra vs. 1984 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 115 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Reliant Scimitar is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1984 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1984 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1984 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 1984 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 1984 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Astra | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
